KR20090004897A - Volatile material dispenser - Google Patents

Abstract

A dispenser (10) for use with an air-treating composition to be emitted includes a base having a container support and a mounting surface (50) separate from the container support. A container (30) is coupled to the base container support and adapted to receive the air-treating composition, and a diffuser element (26) is coupled to the base and positioned to disperse the air-treating composition from the container into the surrounding environment. A cover (16) is adapted for attachment to the base mounting surface (50). The container support remains intact when the cover (16) is removed therefrom. The cover (16) may include a frame for holding one of a plurality of substrates carrying different images. In addition, the base may be formed of a plastic material while the cover is formed of a ceramic material.

Description

Volatile Dispenser {VOLATILE MATERIAL DISPENSER}

FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates generally to devices for diffusing volatile materials, and more particularly to electric air freshener devices.

Volatile distributors are generally known to effectively remove air odors in homes and enclosed public buildings, such as odor masking or destruction. Similar mechanisms are known for spreading insect control materials for killing or delaying the presence of unwanted pests. Several types of steam-diffusion devices have been developed for these purposes. The most common of these devices is an aerosol container that releases small droplets of the air freshener composition into the air. Another common form of diffuser is a dish that contains or supports a body of gelatinized material that, when dried and contracted, releases the vaporized composition into the atmosphere. Other products, such as deodorant blocks, are also used to release air-treating vapors into the atmosphere by evaporation. Another group of vapor-dispensing devices utilizes a carrier material such as paper board or porous plastic or ceramic impregnated or coated with a vaporizable composition.

More recently, air-treating compositions of liquids or gels are placed in an enclosure, in which all or part of the wrapper is formed of a polymeric film through which the air-treating composition is directed to the outer surface. It can be moved to release as steam at. The use of membranes of this type of permeable polymer controls the diffusion of air-treated vapors and tends to eliminate large variations in the rate of diffusion throughout the life of the product.

Wicking devices are also well known for the diffusion of volatile liquids, such as fragrances, deodorants, disinfectants, or insecticide active agents, into the atmosphere. Typical wicking mechanisms utilize a combination of wicks and emanating regions to diffuse volatile liquids from liquid reservoirs. Typical wicking mechanisms are US Patents 1,994,932, 2,597,195, 2,802,695, 2,804,291, 3,550,853, 4,286,754, 4,413,779, 4,454,987, 4,913,350 And 5,000,383, all of which are incorporated herein by reference. Some of these wick diffusion mechanisms use a heat source to promote wicking action. Appliances with heated wicks are described in U.S. Pat.Nos. 3,288,556, 3,431,393, 3,482,929, 3,633,881, 4,020,321, 4,968,487, 5,038,394, 5,290,546 and 5 5,364,027, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Other diffusers of this type, often referred to as plug-in diffusers, have been described in US Pat. Nos. 4.849,606, 5,937,140 and 6,478,440, which are incorporated by S. Raysin, WI. Seed. It was assigned to Johnson & Sun Inc., each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Certain diffusers use electricity from a wall outlet to facilitate the diffusion of the material. Such diffusers generally include a heating element and a base that forms a housing for terminals extending from the rear of the base and sized to be inserted into an electrical outlet. The terminals are operably connected to the heating element to cause the heating element to generate heat when powered. Typically the air treatment composition provided in the vessel is placed proximate to the heating element such that the heat causes the composition to be released as vapor into the atmosphere. One faceplate may be attached to the front of the base to conceal at least a portion of the vessel holding the base and the air treatment composition. The faceplate may be aesthetically pleasing and / or formed with graphics or other visual features on its outer surface. For convenience of production, the faceplate is typically formed of a plastic material such as polypropylene.

In conventional diffusers, the faceplate is permanently fixed to the base or attached to the base to require considerable effort to separate the faceplate from the base. If the faceplate becomes detachable from the base, removal of the faceplate requires at least partial disassembly of the diffuser, resulting in inoperable or unsafe to use. For example, in certain known diffusers, the faceplate not only hides the base, but also allows the composition container to be contained and held in place, such that removal of the faceplate likewise causes Removal may be necessary or may result in such a result. Moreover, regardless of whether or not removal is possible, the faceplate is typically intended to be used with the base throughout the life of the diffuser.

Other material diffusers are provided with a portable power source. To Hayif and his colleagues (HeIf et al.), Seed. U. S. Patent No. 6,293, 474, assigned to Johnson & Sun Incorporated, discloses a drop of liquid by means of a battery operated continuous action diffuser utilizing an orifice plate connected to a piezoletric element. Or piezoelectric liquid delivery systems or atomizers for forming liquid or liquid suspensions. Several components of the system are enclosed in a shell-shaped housing that allows the passage of the liquid in the form of a spray from the diffuser to the atmosphere while providing a pleasant appearance to the consumer. Likewise, the diffuser housing is typically formed of a molded plastic material to facilitate high speed production.

Conventional material diffusers have failed to allow consumers to change the appearance of the cover relative to a given base. As mentioned above, the faceplate may provide aesthetic appearance or graphics that hide at least a portion of the base and composition container. This aesthetic of the faceplate is static, which does not change over the life of the diffuser. Moreover, such covers and faceplates are typically formed of a plastic material, which limits the type of cover materials that can be used, thereby limiting the different appearances and feels that a diffuser of a given material may have.

Summary of the Invention

According to certain aspects, a diffuser for use with an air treatment composition to be released comprises a base having a container support and a mounting surface separate from the container support. A vessel is coupled to and applied to the vessel holder of the base to receive the air treatment composition, and a diffuser element is coupled to and positioned on the base to direct the air treatment composition from the vessel into the surrounding atmosphere. To spread. One cover is adapted to be attached to the mounting surface of the base.

According to separate aspects, the plug-in diffuser for use with a heat-activated air treating composition to be thermally diffused comprises a base having a rear wall, a vessel holder and a mounting surface. The first and second terminals extend from the rear wall of the base and are applied to an electrical outlet to be connected to the electrical outlet. One heating element is placed in the base and is operatively connected to the first and second terminals, the heating element being located proximate to the vessel. One container is adapted to receive the heat-activated air treatment composition, and is sized to be inserted into a receptacle, and one lid is removably coupled to the mounting surface and at least a portion of the container Wherein the mounting surface remains in place and bonded to the base when the cover is removed therefrom.

According to yet another aspect, a diffuser for use with an air treatment composition to be discharged is formed of a plastic material and is coupled to a base comprising a vessel holder and a mounting surface, the vessel support of the base and the air treatment composition And a diffuser element coupled to the base and positioned to diffuse the air treating composition from the vessel into the ambient atmosphere. One cover is formed of a ceramic material and includes an adapter having an mrl coupled to the mounting surface of the base.

1 is an exploded perspective view of a diffuser in accordance with the present disclosure.

2A and 2B are diagrams showing two embodiments of substrates that carry graphics and can be inserted into the faceplate shown in FIG. 1.

3 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a diffuser in accordance with the present disclosure.

4 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a diffuser in accordance with the present disclosure.

5 is a side view of the diffuser of FIG. 4.

6 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a diffuser in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the diffuser of FIG. 6.

8 is a rear view of the lid of the diffuser of FIG. 6.

9 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a diffuser in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 is a bottom perspective view of the diffuser of FIG. 9. FIG.

FIG. 11 is a side cross-sectional view of a control sub-assembly contained within the diffuser of FIG. 9.

12 is a side cross-sectional view of the atomizer sub-assembly contained within the diffuser of FIG. 9.

Although the detailed description of the invention allows for various modifications and alternative structures, specific illustrative embodiments thereof are shown in the drawings and will be described in more detail below. However, it is not intended that the present description be limited to the specific forms described above, but rather that the intention is to cover all modifications, alternative structures and equivalents falling within the spirit and perspective of this specification. Should be.

Embodiments of diffusers of various materials are described below. These include plug-in gels that use consumable packets or pouches of gel material that are heated to diffuse aromatic chemicals; Plug-in scented oil using a container of liquid oil having a wick heated to diffuse aromatic chemicals; And a piezoelectric liquid using a continuous action dispenser having an orifice plate in communication with the piezoelectric element to atomize and diffuse the liquid directional material. delivery system). However, it is to be understood that the present description is not limited to these specific applications and, conversely, may be incorporated into any diffuser structure which may benefit from the advantages described herein.

Referring now to FIG. 1, the plug-in diffuser 10 generally includes a cover in the form of a base assembly 12, a chassis 14, and a faceplate 16. The base assembly 12, chassis 14 and front plate 16 are attached to form an assembled diffuser suitable for receiving a container 30 containing an air treatment composition as described in more detail below. Can be. The assembled unit can then be inserted into and supported by the electrical outlet.

The base assembly 12 includes a rear wall 20, a front wall 22 and side walls 24 connected to the front wall and the rear walls. The rear wall 20, front wall 22 and side walls 24 form a package in which a diffuser element, such as a heating element 2, is located. The pair of terminals 28 are sized and arranged to protrude from the rear wall 20 and to be inserted into an electrical receptacle, such as a standard wall outlet. The terminals 28 are operatively coupled to the heating element such that the heating element 26 generates the desired amount of heat when the terminals 28 are inserted into a powered outlet. The base assembly 12, including the heating element 26 and the terminals 28, can be of any standard structure as is well known in the art.

The front wall 22 of the base includes a structure that engages and holds the vessel 30 that holds heat-activated air treatment compositions. In the embodiment shown, the first rail 32 and the second rail 34 protrude forward from the front wall 22 of the base and are spaced apart from each other towards the rear. The rails 32, 34 are substantially parallel to each other and spaced between them at a distance sufficient to accommodate the full width of the vessel 30, with a linear, generally vertically oriented intermediate portion 36, 38). The rails further comprise bottoms 40, 42 extending inwardly and towards each other, thereby providing a stopping point for engaging the bottom edge of the container 30. One central support 44 also protrudes forward from the front wall 22 of the base and interacts with the contour of the container 30 thereby allowing the container to be positioned between the rails in the desired manner. . The side edges of the front wall 22 include slots 46.

The chassis 14 is coupled to the base assembly 12 and has a mounting wall 50 spaced apart from the front wall 22 of the base to form a receiver for receiving the container 30 therebetween. . As shown in FIG. 1, the mounting wall 50 of the chassis is substantially parallel to the front wall 22 of the base. Two lateral flanges 52 extend from the rear surface of the mounting wall 50 and are substantially perpendicular thereto. A plurality of tabs 54 also extend from the rear surface of the mounting wall 50 and are sized to be inserted into the slots 46 formed in the front wall 22 of the base. The tabs 54 may include enlarged heads to form a snap-fit engagement when inserted through the slots 46. When the chassis 14 is coupled to the base assembly 12, the rear surface of the mounting wall 50 is sufficient to accommodate the thickness of the container 30 and the front wall 22 of the base. Spaced apart from. The assembled base assembly 12 and chassis 14 are adapted to effectively evaporate the air treatment composition located in the vessel 30 in an upward orientation and when the heating element 26 is powered. Support the container 30 by bringing it close enough to the heating element 26.

The base assembly 12 and chassis 14 may allow for a variety of different ventilation of the airflow passages exiting from the reservoir in which the vessel 30 is placed. Direct vent passages extend at both the top and bottom of the base / chassis sub-assembly. In addition, lateral ventilation passages may be provided between the rails 36, 38 of the base assembly 12 and the flanges 52 of the chassis 14. Such ventilation allows diffusion of the vaporized air treatment composition into the atmosphere. The ventilation from the top of the base assembly provides a chimney effect such that air movement across the front of the active material cartridge occurs.

The front plate 16 may be detachably coupled to the chassis 14 to provide an aesthetically pleasing cover that hides at least a portion of the container 30 and the base assembly 12 from view. As shown in FIG. 1, the front plate 16 includes a rear flange 60 having a portion extending inwardly from the periphery of the front plate and engaging with the rear surface of the mounting wall 50 of the chassis. . The flange 60 may have a depth sufficient to accommodate the thickness of the mounting wall 50 such that the flange 60 is slid by the mounting wall 50 and held in place. The front plate 60 further includes a rear wall 62 spaced apart from the front frame 64 by a predetermined distance to define a space therebetween. One access slot 66 may be formed in the side of the front plate 16 and may be in communication with the space between the rear wall 62 and the front frame 64.

The walls 20, 22, 24, chassis 14 and faceplate 16 of the base assembly may be made of any low cost and easy to manufacture material such as polypropylene, nylon and the like.

One substrate 70 carrying one image 72 is sized to be inserted through the access groove 66 and into the space between the rear wall 62 and the front frame 64. An image of the substrate may be displayed by the front panel 16. A set of substrates, each carrying different images as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, may be provided to the diffuser 10 to allow a consumer to selectively change the appearance of the diffuser 10. have. For example, the substrate 70a shown in FIG. 2A includes an image 72 of a flower, while the substrate 70b shown in FIG. 2B includes an image 74 of the moon. Although embodiments of two different substrates are shown here, the diffuser 10 may be provided with two or more substrates, each having a different image thereon. Moreover, a substrate having an image of the customer that can be provided by the consumer can also be used for the faceplate 16.

It should be noted that the diffuser 10 functions continuously while the front plate 16 and / or substrate 70 are being exchanged. The chassis 14 remains coupled to the base assembly 12 regardless of whether the front plate 16 is attached or removed. As a result, the container 30 remains in place even when the faceplate 16 is removed, thereby allowing the diffuser to operate in both states.

In another embodiment of the plug-in gel type shown in FIG. 3, a diffuser 110 having a base assembly 112, a chassis 114, and a container (not shown) similar to the previous embodiment may be provided. However, the faceplate 116 has an unchanged or static display surface 162. However, the appearance of the diffuser 110 may still be changed by removing the front plate 116 and replacing it with a second front plate having a different appearance. This change is facilitated by the removable coupling of the chassis 114 and the faceplate 116. As with the previous embodiment, the removable coupling can be a sliding connection between the two elements. The display surface 162 of the front plate 116 may be accompanied by an image or other visual effect consistent with the appearance of the structure located adjacent to the diffuser 110. For example, the display surface 162 may have a color or texture that matches the color or texture of the wall 180. The exterior surface 162 may have stainless steel, granite, frosted glass or other finishes.

The images carried by different substrates may relate to different seasons, holidays, holidays or other themes. In addition, the substrate may carry images consistent with the appearance of the wall or other structure carrying the electrical outlet. For example, if the adjacent wall is covered with a wallpaper, a matching piece of wallpaper can be inserted into the space between the rear wall 162 and the front frame 164, thereby at least partially the diffuser. You can mask or obscure the existence of (10).

The container 30 shown in FIG. 1 is an active material cartridge that can be replaced when consumed. Once the diffuser 10 is inserted into an outlet, the heating unit heats the air treatment composition in the active material cartridge to release, for example, fragrance into the atmosphere. Once the cartridge is exhausted, it is removed and replaced. The detailed description of the present invention is not limited to these specially designed refill cartridges, but rather also itself possesses a suitable active material to be heated and released, such as a fragrance or insect repellant. It should be noted that the diffuser can be designed as a container. Alternatively, one port can be provided to which separately provided containers can be attached. Preferred containers for the detailed description of the present invention include tray-shaped cartridge containers having a plastic laminate over the active material. The laminate includes a removable outer layer that is permeable to both liquid and vapor forms of the active material and an inner layer that is impermeable to the liquid but permeable to the vapor form of the active material. By removing the outer layer, the active material can diffuse through the remaining layer and be released into the atmosphere. A typical example of such containers is S. S., Leysin, Wisconsin. Seed. Johnson & ray, ray, Inc., are the trade name Glade ^® (GLADE ^®) refill unit (refill units) sold as by lactide. Such cartridges are described in US Pat. No. 4,849,606, which is incorporated herein by reference.

As can be readily seen from the figures, the operation of the heated diffusers shown in FIGS. 1-3 is relatively simple. After inserting an active material cartridge into the receiver, the diffuser 10 can be inserted into an electrical outlet, thereby powering the heating element 26. When activated, heat generated by the heating element 26 is transferred towards the front wall 22 of the base by radiation and conduction. The active material cartridge, which is in close proximity to the opposite side of this wall, absorbs thermal energy and allows the active material in the air treatment composition to be heated and evaporated to be released. The active substance diffuses into the air and passes through the ventilation passages into the atmosphere.

The active substances are fragrances, air fresheners, deodorizers, odor eliminators, odor counteractants, insecticides, insect repellants, and gobble. Active ingredients selected from the group consisting of gurble substances, medical substances, disinfectants, sanitizers, mood enhancers, aroma therapy compositions and mixtures thereof And various materials suitable for diffusion into the atmosphere, such as the like. The most commonly used active substances include fragrances and air fresheners. Preferably, the fragrance or air freshener is Fermenich, Inc., Takasago, Inc., Noville, Inc., One or more available from perfumery suppliers such as Quest Co., International Flavors & Fragrances, and Givaudan-Roure Corp. More volatile organic compounds. The most common fragrance substances are volatile essential oils. The fragrance is synthetically formed material or bergamot, bitter orange, lemon, mandarin, caraway, cedar leaf, clove leaf , Cedar wood, geranium, lavender, orange, origanum, petigrain, white cedar, patchouli, labandine naturally occurring oils such as lavandin, neroli, and rose absolute.

Various chemicals such as aldehydes, ketones, esters, alcohols, terpenes and the like are known as perfumes. The fragrance may be relatively simple in composition or may be a complex mixture of natural and synthetic chemical components. Perfume compositions in synthetic forms, either alone or in combination with natural oils, can be those described in US Pat. Nos. 4,324,915, 4,411,829 and 4,434,306, which are incorporated herein by reference. have. Other artificial liquid fragrances include geraniol, geranyl acetate, eugenol, isoeugenol, linalool, linalyl acetate, Phenethyl alcohol, phenethyl alcohol, methyl ethyl ketone, methylionone, isobomyl acetate, and the like.

Liquid fragrances may also contain thixotropic gels by addition of cellulosic materials, polymeric thickeners or thickeners, such as fumed silica, in the form sold under the trade name Cabosil of Cabot Corporation. thixotropic gel). The perfume component may also be in the form of a crystalline solid, which has the ability to sublimate into the vapor phase at ambient or slightly elevated temperatures. Crystalline fragrance starting materials are vanillin, ethyl vanillin, coumarin, toalid, calone, heliotropene, musk xylol, ced Cedrol, musk ketone benzophenone, raspberry ketone, methyl naphthyl ketone beta, phenyl ethyl salicylate, veltol And may be selected from organic compounds including maltol, maple lactone, proeugenol acetate, emmyl, and the like. This type of fragrance can contribute to providing a long term air treatment capability to the air freshener diffuser device. However, it should be noted that the detailed description of the present invention is not dependent on the specific active materials to be diffused, but on the novel placement and capacity of the material diffusers as described herein.

Another embodiment of a faceplate for the plug-in gel diffuser is shown in FIGS. 4 and 5. The plug-in gel diffuser 200 includes a base assembly 202 and a chassis 204 similar to the previous embodiments. The faceplate 206 has an adapter 208 attached thereto to facilitate coupling of the faceplate 206 to the chassis 204. The adapter 208 allows the front plate 206 to be detachably or permanently attached to the chassis 204. For example, the adapter 208 is formed with tabs 210 that fit into corresponding slots (not shown) formed in the chassis to form a removable connection therebetween. Alternatively, the adapter 208 may be bonded or otherwise attached to the chassis 204 to form a permanent bond. In a presently preferred embodiment, the faceplate 206 is made of ceramic material while the adapter 208 is made of metal or other material that is heat-staked or otherwise bonded to the chassis 204. Is formed.

The front plate 206 may include various features for improving the aesthetics of the diffuser 200. For example, the faceplate 206 may have a stylized, attractive shape with a front surface formed of textures or designs, such as swirl 212 and the like. In addition, the faceplate 206 may include vent apertures 214 having stylized shapes such as the droplet shape as shown. When formed of ceramic material, the faceplate 206 provides a unique look, texture and feel that is different from typical plastic faceplates.

An alternative to the heated diffuser is shown in FIGS. 6 to 8. In this embodiment, the plug-in balm evaporator 250 is described as having a lid, such as a package 252, attached thereto to provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance. As shown in FIG. 7, the evaporator 250 comprises a multi-piece housing comprising an upper housing 254 and a lower housing 256, which is removable for one bottle 258. To form a vessel holder for holding it securely. The evaporator 250 further includes an electrical plug assembly including a plug deck 260 rotatably fixed between the upper housing 254 and the lower housing 256.

The bottle 258 includes evaporable materials (not shown), such as, for example, liquid compositions comprising chemically active materials such as pesticides, fragrances, odor removers, and the like. The term "bottle" is used herein in its broadest possible meaning, including any container, container, pouch, etc. that can hold a liquid composition. The raised pattern 262 on one side of the bottle 258 is coupled by an opening 264 in the front surface of the upper housing 254 of the evaporator 250 such that the bottle 258 is connected to the evaporator 250. In). The front surface of the upper housing 254 is sufficiently flexible to push the bottle 258 in the downward direction so that the raised pattern 262 is from the opening 264 in the front surface of the upper housing 254. Cause it to be released, thereby enabling the bottle 258 to be removed from the evaporator 250. Alternatively, the neck portion of the bottle may be designed to be fitted into or screwed into the evaporator housing. Appropriate refill bottles of various liquid compositions are available under the trade names GLADE®, PLUGINS® and Raid®, in Laysin, Wisconsin, USA. Seed. Available from Johnson & Sun Incorporated.

As best shown in FIG. 8, one wick 266 is attached to the neck of the bottle 258 to lift the liquid composition of the bottle 258 toward the top of the wick 266. The lower end of the wick 266 is impregnated in the liquid composition, and the upper end of the wick 266 protrudes over the neck of the bottle 258. Preferably, the wick 266 is positioned within the bottle 258 by a single cap 268, which fills an open area near the tip of the wick 266. Except for covering the upper end of the wick (266). Alternatively, a lid without a lid may be used. Preferably, the wick 266 is about 7 mm in diameter and is made of ultra high molecular weight high-density polyethylene.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 6 to 8, the upper housing 254 and the lower housing 256 are heat-staking or for example rivets, press fit. And other suitable fastening means such as snap fits, screws, ultrasonic welding, adhesives, and the like. As best shown in FIG. 7, the lower back portion of the upper housing 254 forms an upper semicircular arch 270, the ends of which are at the upper interface surface. (272). The lower housing 256 forms a corresponding inverted, semicircular arch 274, the ends of which define a bottom contact surface 276. When the upper housing 254 and the lower housing 256 are assembled, the upper semicircular arch 270 and the lower semicircular arch 274 are combined to form a circle holding the plug deck 260. The plug deck 260 includes one groove with respect to its periphery. When the upper housing 254 and the lower housing 256 are assembled, the plug deck (i. The upper semicircular arch 270 and the lower semicircular arch 274 fit into the groove in the periphery of 260. A collar 278 fits over the circle formed by the upper semicircular arch 270 and the lower semicircular arches 274, and the upper semicircular arch 270 and the lower semicircular arches 274 are in contact with the top. The surface 272 and the bottom contact surfaces 276 are firmly secured to each other to help secure them. An electrical contact 280 protrudes through the plug deck 260 to power the electrical components of the evaporator 250 and also allows the evaporator 250 to have a wall outlet 282 (FIG. 7). It serves to accomplish two purposes of being supported within. Preferably, the plug deck 260 is rotatable (described in detail below) to support the evaporator 250 in an upward position in both horizontal and vertical wall outlets.

When the evaporator 250 is inserted into a wall socket, the electrical contact 280 is connected to the wick 266 via conventional electrical conductors 282 such as wires or electrodes. And is electrically connected to a diffuser element, such as a heating mechanism 284 for applying heat. The heating mechanism 284 is positioned in the upper housing 254 near the window 286 such that the bottle 2598 faces the tip of the wick 266 when inserted into the evaporator 250. . Heating of the wick 266 enhances the rate at which the liquid composition evaporates and diffuses through the window 286 into the surrounding atmosphere.

Preferably, the heating mechanism 284 is a 6 kω metal oxide resistor potted in a ceramic block, which can be operated at least about 5 Watts. The resistor preferably has a positive temperature coefficient (PTC), which means that its resistance increases slightly further as the resistor is heated. Suitable resistors are available, for example, from Great Land Enterprise Co., Ltd., located in Shenzhen, China. Alternatively, the heating mechanism 284 may include any other suitable type of heating mechanism, such as a resistance heater, a wire-wound heater, a constant temperature coefficient heater, or the like.

As mentioned above, the electrical plug assembly comprising the plug deck 260 is preferably rotatable such that the evaporator 250 is supported in an upward position at both the horizontal and vertical wall outlets. can do. The plug deck 260 is provided with a locking mechanism, which locks the plug deck 260 at a desired one of several positions of use.

The upper housing 254 includes a pedestal 290 protruding upward for supporting the package 252. In the illustrated embodiment, the pedestal 290 has an outer mounting surface 292 in the form of a generally conical, cut top that is tapered from a larger bottom to a smaller top. Have The package 252 includes an adapter sized to slide and engage on at least a portion of the mounting surface 292, such as a bracket 294. Locking means such as a hole 296 formed in the bracket 294 and a pressable tab protruding from the pedestal 290 are provided such that the package 252 is in place on the upper housing 254. Can be fixed. Although the depicted package 252 is removable, it may be permanently secured to the upper housing 254 by running bonding, heat-staking or other means. . Alternatively, the package 252 may be formed of a ceramic material, in which case the bracket 294 may be formed of a metal or other material to facilitate permanent bonding to the upper housing 254. It is typically formed of a plastic material, such as polypropylene. The bracket 294 may also be directly bonded or attached to the inner surface of the package 252, as shown in FIG. 8.

Another material diffuser is shown in FIGS. 9-12. The material diffuser includes a diffuser element in the form of an atomizer, which can diffuse aromatic liquids without the use of heat. The atomizing device 350 shown includes sub-assemblies that are placed within a cover such as a decorative housing 352 or the like.

In particular, the housing includes one packaging portion 354 and a diffusion portion 358 having an inner surface defining one compartment 356. One hole 360 is in fluid communication (fluid connection) between the compartment 356 and the diffusion 358. The housing 352 may contain design elements to provide a fascinating, aesthetically pleasing appearance. In the illustrated embodiment, the packaging portion 354 of the housing generally has the shape of a hemispherical, dome having a pair of semicircular openings 351 therein. The diffusion 358 is also hemispherical resembling a bowl. The housing 352 is preferably formed of a ceramic material to provide a unique texture, appearance and feel that is not typically associated with an air treatment composition diffuser.

As shown in FIG. 10, the atomization mechanism 350 is attached to discrete portions of the housing 352 and is atomized with a control sub-assembly 353 that is placed within the compartment 356. Subassembly 355. The control subassembly shown in more detail in FIG. 11 includes a wall 364 coupled to the surface of the compartment 356. A pair of battery holding lugs 362 protrude from the wall 364 and support the AA battery 366. The wall 364 is formed on an opposite surface of the surface on which the upright support 366 on which the printed circuit board 370 is mounted is provided. The printed circuit board includes circuits connected to the battery 366 by solder (not shown). The circuits on the printed circuit board 370 also generate a high frequency alternating voltage at various intervals depending on the setting of the switch mounted on the printed circuit board. One switch actuator (not shown) is connected to the switch to allow adjustment of the timing of these intervals.

As best shown in FIG. 12, the atomization subassembly 355 includes a bottom wall 372 that defines a mounting surface for attachment to the housing 352. The bottom wall 372 is a pair of radially opposing bayonet-shaped slots for receiving two radially opposing connecting projections 378 extending radially outward from the liquid refill container or bottle 380. bayonet type slots (376) are formed with an upwardly extending vessel holder (374). The container or bottle 380 can be removed from the atomizer by rotating it so that the protrusions 378 are released from the bayonet-shaped slots 376. The vessel or bottle 380 has a wick 382 extending from its top and conveying liquid from the vessel to the bottom of an orifice plate 384 by capillary action.

The upper end of the vessel holder 374 is circular in cross section and has a central opening 386. The vessel holder 374 is formed with an outwardly protruding snap fit bead 388 that receives a flange 390 extending inwardly of the retainer 392. The bearing 392 has an upper horizontal wall 394 from which flexible retainer fingers 396 extend therefrom. These branches press and hold the piezoelectric element 398 having an annular shape against the shoulder 400 formed in the central opening 386 of the vessel holder 374. The orifice plate 394, which comprises a plurality of very small orifices or perforations, is attached to the piezoelectric element 398 by, for example, adhesive or solder, to form the annular piezoelectric element 398. And extend across the bottom of the central opening. It should be understood that the orifice plate 394 may also extend across the top of the central opening of the annular piezoelectric element 398.

The upper and lower surfaces of the piezoelectric element 398 are connected to the circuits on the printed circuit board 370 by a pair of solders (not shown). These circuits are applied to an actuator (a device for converting electrical energy into vibration energy by a piezoelectric effect) and generate alternating voltages which cause the actuator to expand and contract in radial directions. This in turn causes the orifice plate 384 to oscillate up and down at high frequencies.

In operation of the instrument, the battery 366 supplies power to electrical circuits on the printed circuit board 370. These circuits generate a high frequency alternating voltage supplied to the upper and lower surfaces of the piezoelectric element 398. The piezoelectric element 398 in turn expands and contracts and causes the orifice plate 384 to oscillate up and down as described above. On the other hand, the wick 382 pulls liquid from the container 380 to the bottom of the orifice plate 384 by capillary action. The up and down oscillation of the orifice plate 384 causes this liquid to be pumped through its orifices and released from the upper surface of the orifice plate in the form of aerosolized particles. The discharged liquid exits the instrument through the aperture 360.

The volatile diffusion system described herein incorporates features that extend the ability to provide a system with a unique appearance. In certain embodiments, a removable cover is provided that allows to change the appearance of the diffuser as desired. In other embodiments, the system combines a frame of functional and aesthetic features for an electric fragrance diffuser. In addition, diffusers are described that allow the attachment of a ceramic sheath to a plastic base, thereby making it possible to provide additional choices about the appearance of the diffuser.

Many modifications may be made to those skilled in the art in light of the above detailed description. Therefore, this detailed description should be construed as illustrative only, for the purpose of enabling those skilled in the art to make and use the invention and also to teach the best mode of making and using the invention. It is provided. Exclusive rights to all modifications falling within the scope of the appended claims should be preserved.

Claims (42)

A base comprising a vessel holder and a mounting surface separate from the vessel holder; A container coupled to the container support of the base and adapted to receive an air treatment composition; A diffuser element coupled to the base and positioned to diffuse the air treating composition from the vessel into the surrounding atmosphere; And A cover applied to be attached to the mounting surface of the base; A diffuser for use with an air treatment composition that must be discharged comprising a. The method of claim 1, A diffuser for use with an air treatment composition, wherein said diffuser element comprises a heating element. The method of claim 1, And a diffuser element in fluid communication with said air treating composition in said container. The method of claim 3, wherein Wherein the atomizer comprises an actuator operatively coupled to the diffuser element and the diffuser element to selectively vibrate the diffuser element and thereby diffuse particles of the air treatment composition. Diffuser for use. The method of claim 4, wherein A diffuser for use with an air treatment composition, wherein said actuator comprises a piezoelectric element. The method of claim 4, wherein A diffuser for use with an air treatment composition wherein said diffuser element comprises an orifice plate. The method of claim 3, wherein And a first subassembly and a second subassembly, wherein the atomizer is coupled to each other and independently of the cover. The method of claim 7, wherein Wherein the first subassembly comprises a control subassembly comprising a portable power source and a controller coupled to the portable power source. The method of claim 8, And the second subassembly comprises an atomizer subassembly comprising a diffuser member, an actuator and the container. The method of claim 1, And a sheath permanently attached to the mounting surface of the base. The method of claim 1, And the lid is removably attached to the mounting surface of the base. The method of claim 1, Wherein said base comprises a base assembly and a chassis, wherein said chassis defines said mounting surface. The method of claim 12, A diffuser for use with an air treatment composition, wherein said cover comprises a faceplate. The method of claim 1, And said base comprises a pedestal, wherein said pedestal defines said mounting surface. The method of claim 14, A diffuser for use with an air treatment composition, wherein said cover comprises a package. The method of claim 1, The cover includes a housing having an interior surface defining a compartment, wherein the base comprises a bottom wall, wherein the wall of the base is located in the compartment and coupled to an interior surface of the housing. Diffuser for use in an air treatment composition. The method of claim 16, And the housing comprises a package defining a compartment, a diffuser and a hole in fluid communication between the compartment and the diffuser. The method of claim 17, A diffuser for use with an air treatment composition, wherein said diffuser element is positioned adjacent said aperture. The method of claim 1, A first cover adapted to detachably attach the cover to the mounting surface of the base, further comprising a second cover adapted to detachably attach the diffuser to the mounting surface of the base; A diffuser for use with an air treatment composition that must be released. The method of claim 1, A receiver formed in the base, a first terminal and a second terminal extending from the rear wall of the base and adapted for connection to an electrical outlet and operatively placed in the base and operable to the first and second terminals; And a heating element connected to and positioned near the receiver. The method of claim 20, A diffuser for use with an air treatment composition, wherein said air treatment composition comprises a heat-activating gel. The method of claim 20, And the air treating composition comprises perfume oil and comprising a wick having a size for insertion of the container into the receiver. The method of claim 1, A diffuser for use with an air treatment composition, wherein said mounting surface of said base comprises a plastic material and said cover comprises a ceramic material. The method of claim 1, And a cover having an adapter sized to engage the mounting surface of the base. The method of claim 24, A diffuser for use with an air treatment composition, wherein said adapter comprises a metallic material adhered to said cover. A base having a rear wall, a container support and a mounting surface; First and second terminals extending from the rear wall and adapted to be connected to an electrical outlet; A heating element placed in the base and operatively coupled to the first and second terminals, the heating element being located near the vessel holder; A vessel coupled to the vessel support of the base and adapted to receive the heat-activated air treatment composition; And And a cover that is releasably coupled to the mounting surface and covers at least a portion of the container. Wherein said lid is left in contact with said vessel holder when said lid is removed from said mounting surface. A plug-in diffuser for use with a heat-activated air treatment composition to be thermally diffused. The method of claim 26, And wherein the base further comprises a front wall, wherein the mounting surface comprises a mounting wall of the chassis, wherein the mounting wall is spaced from the front wall of the base to define the vessel holder. Plug-in diffuser for use with the heat-activated air treatment composition to be. The method of claim 27, A plug-in diffuser for use with a heat-activated air-treating composition to be thermally diffused, said cover comprising a first faceplate slidably received on said chassis. The method of claim 26, And a second face plate adapted to be releasably coupled to the mounting wall of the chassis, wherein the first face plate has a front surface with a first image, and the second face plate has a front with a second image. Having a surface, wherein a user selectively couples either one of said first and second front plates to said chassis. Plugin diffuser. The method of claim 26, The first front plate comprising a front frame spaced apart from the rear wall and the rear wall of the front plate to define a space sufficient to receive a substrate carrying an image, the front plate being connected to the space and through which the substrate A plug-in diffuser for use with a heat-activated air treatment composition to be thermally diffused, characterized in that it comprises an access groove having a receiving size. The method of claim 30, And further comprising a plurality of substrates having a size inserted through the groove and into the faceplate, wherein each substrate has a different image. Diffuser. The method of claim 26, A plug-in diffuser for use with a heat-activated air treatment composition to be thermally diffused, wherein said air treatment composition comprises a gel. The method of claim 26, A plug-in diffuser for use with a heat-activated air treatment composition to be thermally diffused, wherein the air treatment composition comprises perfume oils. The method of claim 26, The base includes a pedestal defining an extended receiver, wherein the vessel comprises an extended wick having a size that is inserted into the extended receiver. Plug-in diffuser for use with. The method of claim 26, A plug-in diffuser for use with a heat-activated air treatment composition to be thermally diffused, characterized in that the cover comprises an adapter having a size releasably coupled to the mounting surface. The method of claim 26, The electrical outlet is mounted on a wall having a design feature, wherein the cover has a front surface with an image corresponding to the design feature of the wall. Plug-in diffuser for use with A base formed of plastic material and comprising a vessel holder and a mounting surface; A container coupled to the container support of the base and adapted to receive an air treatment composition; A diffuser element coupled to the base and positioned to diffuse the air treating composition from the vessel into the surrounding atmosphere; And A lid comprising an adapter formed of ceramic material and having a size coupled to a mounting surface of the base; A diffuser for use with the air treatment composition to be discharged, characterized in that it comprises a. The method of claim 37, wherein And the adapter is releasably coupled to the mounting surface. The method of claim 37, wherein A diffuser for use with an air treatment composition to be discharged, wherein said adapter is permanently coupled to said mounting surface. The method of claim 39, A diffuser for use with an air treatment composition to be discharged, characterized in that the adapter comprises a bracket formed of a metallic material. The method of claim 40, A diffuser for use with an air treatment composition to be discharged, wherein said bracket is heat-baked to said vessel holder. The method of claim 40, A diffuser for use with an air treatment composition to be discharged, wherein said bracket is adhered to a ceramic sheath.

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